Black Friday 2011: Apple to offer deals

Many retailers including Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Kmart and Sears got an early start to the Black Friday madness by leaking details of their promotions last week. One popular purveyor of electronics had been missing from the fray though, until today.

Apple has posted a notice on its Web site telling customers it will offer a “special one-day Apple shopping event” on Nov. 25.

Unfortunately for consumers hoping to make a pre-game plan for their Black Friday shopping expeditions, the announcement doesn’t offer many details. It doesn’t specify exactly what discounts or promotions might be offered, but it does say consumers will be able to find “iPad, iPod, and Mac gifts for everyone on your list.”

One popular Apple product notably absent from that list is the iPhone. But it’s unclear whether not naming the device in the posting means it will be excluded from the company’s deal offerings.

It’s also worth noting that the posting specifically names the “Apple Online Store” as the place to return to for the sales event. This phrasing suggests it’s possible that the offers will only be available to Web customers and not those who visit brick-and-mortar retail outlets.

Sarah Halzack is The Washington Post's national retail reporter. She has previously covered the local job market and the business of talent and hiring. She has also served as a Web producer for business and economic news.